E1 S15: A Practical Guide to Growing Your Career in Sustainability

Season 15 of the Social Change Career Podcast kicks off with a practical, energizing episode for anyone passionate about making a difference in sustainability. Host Craig Zelizer is joined by Kajsa Hendrickson—a partnership architect and seasoned sustainability expert—to share candid advice, lessons from an unconventional career path, and strategies for breaking into and thriving in the field.

Kajsa’s journey shows adaptability, initiative, and the power of building broad skills. From global politics to conflict resolution, and on to advising Fortune 500s and leading energy equity initiatives, she brings a wealth of experience and insight.

Why Take a Listen:

• Redefining Sustainability Careers: Kajsa explains what real work in sustainability looks like, why it’s not a straight path, and where your skills might fit—regardless of your background.
• Grad School—Yes or No? Get honest advice about when further education makes sense (and when it doesn’t), including tips to identify high-value programs and real-world experience as an alternative.
• Build the Skills Employers Seek: Discover why project management and stakeholder engagement are absolutely essential, and how to develop and showcase these in ways that resonate—whether you’ve gained them in paid roles or not.
• Facing Sector Shifts: Hear Kajsa’s take on how current events, politics, funding, and new technologies like AI are disrupting sustainability, and what this means for careers on the ground.
• Balancing Impact with Wellbeing: Learn Kajsa’s approach to ambitious work, setting boundaries, and finding hope during climate and social crises.

Resources and Where to Go Next

Kajsa Hendrickson on LinkedIn
People & Planet
Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA)
Southern Company
Schneider Electric
Center for Sustainable Energy
Carbon180

Graduate Program Mentioned:
Kroc School of Peace Studies, University of San Diego

Podcasts & News Sources Recommended:
Volts Podcast
Bloomberg Green
S&P Global Sustainable1 Podcasts

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